Popular supplements could raise the risk of prostate cancer

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As men get older, we worry about prostate problems – especially prostate cancer. That's why a lot of men take supplements that contain a combination of selenium and vitamin E.

While early research did show selenium and vitamin E might provide some protection, more recent research makes it clear this was a bad idea.

"There have been several studies that have come out over the last few years, showing that not only doesn't it help, but that it actually may make things worse," said Dr. John Swartzberg , head of the editorial board at the UC Berkeley Wellness Letter.

By that he means, taking high-dose supplements of vitamin E or selenium could increase the risk of prostate cancer.

"So the bottom line is that in spite of the enthusiasm by the supplement manufacturers for these products, they are not neutral," Swartzberg said. "They actually may be deleterious to one’s health."

And that's why health experts say men 55 and older should not take supplements containing amounts of selenium or vitamin E that exceed the recommended daily intake.
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